Why Termites Are A Year-Round Battle In San Mateo

Top Signs Of Termite Activity In San Mateo

Most termite infestations happen unbeknownst to homeowner because they can be hard to catch a glimpse of, as they often hide behind walls and other structures. Termite identification can also be difficult, and the signs of termite activity vary from home to home. It is important to be on the lookout for these signs, however, and to take immediate action if you suspect a termite infestation.

Different kinds of termites bring all sorts of problems, but the signs of their presence are similar. There are a few signs that you can look for to indicate the presence of termites in your home. Some of the top signs of termite activity in San Mateo include:

Swarming termites: Termites reproduce by swarming, and you may see large groups of winged termites near windows, doors, or light fixtures. These termites are called "swarmers" and are often the first sign of a termite infestation.

Mud tubes: Termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and to maintain the humidity that they need to survive. If you see small, pencil-sized mud tubes on your foundation or walls, it could be a sign of termite activity.

Hollow-sounding wood: If you tap on wood and it sounds hollow, it could be a sign that termites have eaten away at the inside. This is a common sign of termite damage and should be taken seriously.

Discarded wings: If you find discarded wings in your home, it could be a sign that termites have swarmed and are now establishing a colony in your home. 

If you suspect termites in your San Mateo home, call Pacific Pest Management before the problem gets out of hand.

What Months Are Termites In San Mateo Most Active

Termites are typically most active in San Mateo during the warmer months, generally from April to October. During these months, termites are more likely to swarm and reproduce, increasing the likelihood of an infestation. However, termites can still be a problem during the colder months, too, as they are able to survive and continue feeding on wood in the warmth of a building.

The activity levels of termites in San Mateo can vary depending on the specific species of termite, as well as weather conditions. Subterranean termites, which are the most common type of termite found in San Mateo, are known to be active all year round, but they are most active during the spring and summer months. This is because subterranean termites need a constant source of moisture to survive, and the warmer months provide the ideal conditions for them to thrive. They are most likely to swarm and reproduce during the spring, usually in April and May, but swarmers can be found until June.

Drywood termites, another species found in San Mateo, are also active year-round but are most active during the summer months. They swarm in late summer or early fall, usually in August and September. Their swarms are mostly active during the day and are attracted to light, so you may see them around windows or doors. Formosan termites, on the other hand, are a non-native species that are also found in San Mateo. This species of termite is most active during the summer months. They are known to swarm at night, usually during the months of May to July.

Termites can be active at any time of the year and can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated. It is recommended to have regular inspections by a professional pest control company to detect any termite activity and prevent infestation.

It is important to leave termite control to the experts in San Mateo, as they have the knowledge and experience to properly identify and treat an infestation. If you suspect that you have a termite problem on your hands, our team at Pacific Pest Management is prepared to help you control the problem with ease. 

Identify And Remove Factors That Attract Termites

Identifying and removing factors that attract termites is a crucial step in preventing and controlling a termite infestation in your home or property. Termites are attracted to certain conditions and materials. By identifying and removing these factors, you can reduce the risk of termites infesting your home and causing damage. Some factors include:

• Moisture: Many species of termites are attracted to moist environments, as they need a constant source of water to survive. Therefore, it's important to eliminate any sources of moisture in and around your home, such as leaky pipes, gutters, and roofs. Additionally, ensure that the soil around your foundation is graded properly to prevent any water from pooling near the foundation.
• Wood: Termites are attracted to wood, as it is their primary food source. Therefore, it's important to remove any unnecessary piles of wood, and store wood such as firewood at least 20 feet from your home. Additionally, try to ensure that all wood in contact with the soil, such as decks and porches, is treated with a termite-resistant wood preservative.
• Cracks and crevices: Termites can enter your home through small cracks and crevices, so it's important to seal all entry points around your home. This can include gaps around windows, doors, and pipes. Additionally, it's important to inspect your home for any cracks or crevices that may be entry points for termites and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
• Trees and bushes: Trees and bushes that are in close proximity to your home can provide a pathway for termites to enter your home. Maintain a barrier of at least 18 inches between trees and bushes and your home to reduce the risk of termites entering your home.
• Professional inspection: Regular inspections by a professional pest control company like our team at Pacific Pest Management can help identify potential termite risks and provide recommendations for treatment and prevention.

By identifying and removing factors that attract termites, you can reduce the risk of termites infesting your home and causing damage. However, it's important to note that termite control can be complex and difficult to do on your own, which is why it's important to call the experts at Pacific Pest Management to conduct a thorough inspection of your home and provide a customized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of the infestation and eliminates the termites completely. With the help of our professionals, you can rest assured that your home is protected from termite infestation.

Why You Should Leave Termite Control To The Experts In San Mateo

Termite control is no easy feat, but the good news is that you don't need to deal with this problem on your own. Our expert team at Pacific Pest Management is here for you every step of the way, which is why leaving termite control to the experts is the best way to get rid of termites.

An important aspect of termite control in San Mateo is ongoing monitoring and extensive maintenance. Even after an infestation has been treated, it is important to continue to monitor the home for any signs of termite activity. Professional termite control technicians can conduct regular termite inspections, as well as implement preventive measures, which may include things like sealing cracks and openings in the foundation of the home.

A professional pest control company will also be able to provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance to help prevent future infestations. This may include removing piles of wood or debris (or other potential hiding places for termites), using termite-resistant building materials, and making sure that gutters are functioning properly to prevent water from pooling near the foundation of the building. Homeowners can also take steps to make their homes less attractive to termites by reducing moisture in the crawlspace, ensuring proper ventilation for attics, and maintaining a dry environment through the foundation level, which can discourage termites from nesting. However, it's important to note that these steps are not enough without professional pest control technicians following up.

It is also important to note that damage from termite infestations is not covered by most homeowners' insurance policies, so it is crucial to take preventive measures and address any infestations as soon as they are detected to prevent costly damage to the property. The damage caused by termites can result in anywhere between hundreds to thousands of dollars. 

Don't waste another moment; contact our team at Pacific Pest Management for effective termite control to protect your San Mateo property.